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Media CARACAS—Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has accused U.S. President Barack
Obama of promoting ongoing protests in the country, and of backing
members of the opposition alleged to be behind violence.

In a communique, the Latin American leader demanded that the U.S.
explain its motives in "financing, promoting and defending members of
the opposition that promote violence against our country."

Maduro went on to denounce declarations made by Obama regarding the
situation in Venezuela, saying that they presented a "gross interference
in internal affairs."

The new accusations come amidst a spike in the unrest that has gripped
Venezuela, with some six people killed since demonstrations mounted by
the opposition turned violent last week.

Wednesday night saw sporadic clashes between demonstrators in the
capital of Caracas, the majority of which are middle class students who
are frustrated with the country’s sputtering economy and soaring crime
rate, and are seeking a regime change.

Maduro, who was elected last year as the heir apparent following the
death of long-time President Hugo Chavez, has accused the opposition of
fomenting a coup and inciting violence.

"There is an international campaign to justify a foreign intervention in Venezuela," Maduro said on Wednesday.

"We hope the government will reconsider its decision," CNN Español said in an on-air statement."In the meantime, we will continue reporting on Venezuela in a just,
accurate and balanced manner that characterizes us as a journalistic
enterprise."Add
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